Toronto Blue Jays Claim Outfielder Darin Mastroianni From Twins

Sep 3, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Twins center fielder Darin Mastroianni (19) leads off of first base against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports

Ahead of Tuesday’s match-up with the Baltimore Orioles, the Toronto Blue Jays have added some outfield depth to their minor-league system, claiming Darin Mastroioanni off waivers from the Minnesota Twins according to Chris Cotillo of MLB Daily Dish.

In a corresponding move, as relayed by Brendan Kennedy of The Star, the Blue Jays cleared a 40-man roster spot by designating outfielder Kenny Wilson for assignment.

It is somewhat of a full circle move for Mastroianni, who was designated for assignment by the Twins last week when they signed outfielder Sam Fuld. Originally a 2007 16th round draft pick of the Blue Jays, Toronto lost him on waivers to the Twins on February 9, 2012. Incidentally, Mastroianni also scored the go-ahead run during Minnesota’s come-from behind win against the Blue Jays on April 17th, just two days before being designated.

The 28-year-old Mastroianni has played in parts of four seasons in the Major Leagues, 3 with the Twins and 1 game with the Blue Jays in 2011. In 115 career games, he owns a .220/.288/.295 slash line. However, he has been significantly better at the minor league level, posting a .280/.370/.370 slash in 603 career games with 222 stolen bases.

He’ll take the roster spot of outfielder Kenny Wilson, who used a stellar Arizona Fall League performance to get added to the 40-man roster this past winter. However, Wilson owns a rather paltry .228/.326/.312 slash line in his minor league career. The ability of Mastroianni to play both center field and second base likely sets him apart here.